Newcastle United vs Espanyol

In a lively pre-season contest at St James’ Park, Newcastle United and Espanyol played out a 2–2 draw that had drama from start to finish. The visitors landed the first blow in the 17th minute when Edu Expósito curled a spectacular strike into the top corner, punishing Newcastle United for a sluggish start. The Magpies’ response was immediate — just four minutes later, Matt Targett rose highest in the box to head home the equalizer, restoring balance to the match and sparking the home crowd into full voice.

The game swung back and forth through the first half, with both sides finding openings. Newcastle handed a debut to Aaron Ramsdale, who made an instant impact by denying Javi Puado from the penalty spot, a save that kept the score level and lifted his new teammates. Espanyol, however, continued to press with purpose, while Newcastle’s midfield, led by youngster Lewis Miley, began to grow in influence and create more attacking movement.

After the break, the home side’s persistence paid off. In the 77th minute, Jacob Murphy latched onto a defensive lapse, calmly slotting the ball past the keeper to give Newcastle a 2–1 lead. The goal looked like it might seal their first pre-season win, especially as Espanyol began to look stretched in the closing stages. But the Spanish side refused to fold, showing grit and determination in the dying minutes.

With the clock winding down, Espanyol found their moment. In the 89th minute, Kike García connected with a pinpoint cross from Pere Milla, directing a header beyond Ramsdale to level the match at 2–2. The late blow denied Eddie Howe’s side a morale-boosting victory and extended their winless pre-season run. For Espanyol, the equalizer preserved their unbeaten summer, sending them back to Spain with confidence intact.

Beyond the scoreline, the match offered telling insights for both managers. Newcastle’s defensive lapses and inability to close out games will be a concern heading into the new season, while bright performances from Miley and Ramsdale provide hope. Eddie Howe also confirmed that Alexander Isak remains absent from the squad due to transfer speculation, a distraction the team will need to resolve quickly. For Espanyol, the draw capped another solid display, combining defensive resilience with moments of attacking quality that could serve them well in their upcoming campaign.

Watch and Download Newcastle United vs Espanyol full match replay and highlights, At Friday, August 08, 2025. The match played at St. James’ Park in Friendly.

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